Have you ever wondered how you could get early access to new features of the Windows operating system on your Windows PC? We got you covered. Today we will be talking about the Windows Insider Program and why to join it. We will also guide you on various Insider channels and how to join them and install them on your Windows PC.
Basically, the Windows Insider Program allows you to test new features and updates before they are released to the general public. You get an opportunity to provide feedback and improve the overall user experience. By following the steps outlined in this article, you will be able to join the Windows Insider Program.
What is the Windows Insider Program?
The Windows Insider Program is Microsoft’s testing program that lets you try upcoming Windows features and updates before they’re released to the public. By joining, you can explore new features early and provide feedback to help Microsoft improve Windows.
All you need to join is a Microsoft account. It’s a great option for users who enjoy testing new technology and helping shape future Windows updates.
Why Join Windows Insider Program?
Joining the Windows Insider Program can be a rewarding experience, especially if you enjoy testing new features before they reach the general public.
Some of the key benefits include:
- Early Access: Get access to the latest Windows features and updates before they are officially released.
- Provide Feedback: Help Microsoft improve Windows by reporting bugs, suggesting improvements, and sharing your experience.
- Engage With the Community: Connect with other Windows enthusiasts and participate in discussions about upcoming features.
- Influence Development: Your feedback can help shape future Windows updates and features.
- Exclusive Opportunities: Gain access to Insider-only events, webcasts, and announcements.
- Flexible Update Channels: Choose the Insider channel that best matches your needs, whether you prefer cutting-edge features or greater stability.
Windows Insider Channels
There are four different Windows Insider Channels you can choose from to acquire early updates and test new Microsoft features. These channels offer different levels of stability and update frequency, allowing you to choose the one that best meets your needs.
Canary Channel: Least stable Insider build for highly technical users, featuring major Windows kernel changes and new APIs. Frequent issues are possible due to rapid updates. It acts as a bridge between the Dev and Beta channels.
Dev Channel: The Dev Channel offers the most frequent updates, giving you access to the latest features and improvements before anyone else. However, since these updates are still in development, they might come with some bugs and issues.
Beta Channel: If you prefer a more stable experience with fewer bugs, the Beta Channel is a great choice. It provides updates that have undergone some additional testing and refinement. While you still get to try out new features, the risk of encountering major issues is significantly reduced compared to the Dev Channel.
Release Preview Channel: The Release Preview Channel can be suitable for you if you want to experience updates just before they are officially released. These updates are thoroughly tested and considered stable, making them suitable for those who desire a more reliable and polished experience.
How to Join Windows Insider Program on Windows 11
To join the Windows Insider Program on Windows 11, you can follow these steps:
1. Launch the settings menu by pressing Win + I on your keyboard.
2. On the left sidebar look for Windows Update options and click on it.
3. Once you are inside the Windows update menu on your PC. Look for the Windows Insider Program and click on it.
4. Once in Windows Insider Program settings, click on the Get Started button. This will initiate the process of enrollment of your PC in the Insider program.
5. A pop-up window will appear and you will be asked to link an account to join the program. Here click on the Link an account button.
6. A new screen loads and here you will be able to see multiple options. If your Microsoft account is logged in on your Windows 11 PC, you can simply select the same account.
7. Alternatively, you can also use a separate account provided by your Work or school or log in with another Microsoft account too. Once the account is selected, hit the Continue button.
8. Now, comes the very important step. Here, you will be prompted to select any one Insider channel that you want to install and use. Read the descriptions of each channel carefully and click on one that suits you.
9. Then click on Continue to move to the next step.
10. After that, review the agreements for your device and then select Continue.
11. Select Restart Now to restart your device and start receiving your selected builds right away. Alternatively, you can restart your device later and start receiving builds at that time.
How to Install Windows 11 Insider Preview Build
After restarting your PC, you can check for Windows updates to download and install the Windows 11 Insider Preview build. For that, follow the following steps:
1. Open Windows Settings.
2. Go to Windows Update > Update Now. Here, click on the Check for Update button. This way you will be able to manually install the latest Windows Insider Preview build on your Windows PC.
3. Once all the downloads and installations are complete, click on the Restart Now button to apply the update.
How to Verify Windows 11 Insider Preview Build
You can cross-verify if you have successfully joined the Windows Insider Program once you have downloaded and installed Windows 11 Insider Preview Build.
For that, follow the following these steps:
1. Launch the Settings app by pressing Win + I.
2. Under System settings, click on the About option. This way you will be able to view your system details.
3. Look for the Windows specifications section and check for the OS build version.
4. Alternatively, you can double-check your Windows Insider Channel. For that, navigate to Settings > Windows Update > Windows Insider Program. Here, you will be able to verify Windows 11 Insider Preview Build channel
Conclusion
Joining the Windows Insider Program on Windows 11 allows you to get early access to upcoming features and updates while contributing to the improvement of the operating system through your feedback. However, if you want to leave the Windows Insider program then you can check out our linked guide.
Moreover, choose the Insider Channel that best suits your preferences and risk tolerance, and enjoy being a part of the exciting world of Windows development. Remember that Insider Preview Builds may contain bugs and issues. So it’s suggested to back up your data and not use them on your primary devices for the best experience.
